The scary thing is that this probably qualifies as the strength of the team. Myers will be hard-pressed to match his 2010 season, but a full season from Happ should help the group and Norris could take a bit of a step forward, though I still believe his future lies in the pen and the closer’s role. … I expect that the team will add a veteran to battle Rowland-Smith and Figueroa for the fifth spot in the rotation. Jeremy Bonderman, Rodrigo Lopez and Dave Bush are a few of the pitchers likely to be forced to accept minor league deals.

Beyond Lyon, it’s a pen full of relative unknowns. However, Melancon and Lopez impressed after getting opportunities last season, and Arias could function as another solid setup man if he returns from shoulder surgery as hoped. Giving away Matt Lindstrom was a mistake, but the Astros should be OK here.

The infield is going to make a whole lot of outs, especially if Barmes bats second as anticipated. I don’t see Johnson as a long-term regular, and Wallace has an awful lot to prove as well. The Astros do have the option of playing Carlos Lee at first, but given that they haven’t upgraded their outfield at all, Wallace figures to get every opportunity to win the job. … I’m listing Keppinger as the primary backup at two spots, but he’s expected to miss at least the first few weeks of the season after toe surgery last month. The Astros could again seek to trade him once he’s healthy.

I could have copied this depth chart from a year ago. Unfortunately, Bogusevic was a disappointment again last season and it no longer seems likely that he’ll turn into even a legitimate fourth outfielder. Martinez could be one candidate to step in if Wallace struggles and the Astros decide to move Lee to first base during the season.

While we are one the Astros. Wouldn’t this be a great time to move them to the American League West? Their rivalries in the National Central really aren’t that restrictive. They could develop a serious one with the Rangers. C’mon MLB, balance the leagues and schedules.

And these clowns didn’t want Berkman back? After he was injured last year? And even injured performed better than Wallace? And then elected to keep that fat, out of shape Carlos Lee? Wade and McClain deserve to have Berkman have a hand in kicking their behind many times next season. I’m now a Cardinals / Phillies fan. The Astro’s have once again shot themselves in the foot. Enjoy your empty seats Drayton “who wants to be a champion” McClain! Oh that;s right, your throwing in the towel, hahhah!